
A major crop in the region, mango cultivation spans 10,000 hectares in Mandya: DC
He was speaking at the inauguration of the 'Mango and Jackfruit Mela, Plant Expo, and Sales Fair – 2025', organised jointly by the district administration, zilla panchayat, and the Department of Horticulture.
Dr. Kumar highlighted that mango is one of the major horticultural crops in the region, with the district producing over 20,000 tonnes annually.
'The mela has been organised to ensure quality mangoes are made available to consumers at fair prices, to foster stronger farmer-consumer relationships, and to provide encouragement to mango growers,' he added.
Zilla panchayat Chief Executive Officer K.R. Nandini said the mela is being held in the district after several years. Alongside the mango and jackfruit displays, a plant exhibition and sales event has also been arranged to provide high-quality fruit saplings to farmers and the general public, she added.
The mela features over 15 stalls, showcasing more than 40 varieties of mangoes brought by local farmers as well as growers from other districts. The focus is on promoting chemical-free and carbide-free fruits, the organisers said.
In addition, over 10 varieties of jackfruit are on display, drawing interest from consumers. The organisers have urged the public to visit the mela and make the most of this opportunity.
Superintendent of Police Mallikarjun Baladandi, Deputy Director of Horticulture Roopashree, and other senior officials were present.
The exhibition features popular varieties such as Badami, Raspuri, Mallika, Malgova, Sendura, Kesar, Sakkarebuthi, Imam Pasand, Totapuri, Langra, Rumani, Chilak Ras, Amlet, and Madanapalle — all of which attracted the visitors.
The mela also showcases more than 10 varieties of jackfruit, including Gubbi Bakke, Bakke, Cheluru Bakke, Ajji Halasu, Sakkare Pattana Onake, Gurugala Thota, and Chandra Halasu, each unique in flavor and texture, they said.
An array of grafted saplings and seedlings are being sold at government-approved prices at the expo. Varieties available include lemon, mango, guava (Allahabad Safeda), sapota (cricket ball), drumstick (PKM1), and arecanut, providing an opportunity for those looking to start or expand fruit cultivation.
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